{Book Review} Walking with God: Practical Religion

Walking with God: Practical Religion by J.C. Ryle is a new abridged and easier-to-read version of Ryle’s masterpiece entitled Practical Religion. This volume is included in the“Grace Essentials” series published by Christian Focus (under the Christian Heritage imprint) and Grace Publications. 

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Let me begin by saying that if you have never read Bishop Ryle, then you must do so! His writings are a great blessing to the church, and we would do well to partake of them. He is not difficult to read and understand (even more so in this volume), and he is sure to encourage, challenge, and comfort the reader by his exposition of God’s Word and his focus on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Walking with God: Practical Religion by J.C. Ryle

This abridged version is much shorter than Ryle’s original Practical Religion, and I think that could be a good thing for many people. I am personally a fan of author’s un-abridged, original writings, but I have experienced the benefits of abridged versions of books.

For one, the shorter books typically allow the reader to allow the content to soak in instead of being overwhelmed by the sheer amount of content. Instead of rushing through a book, one can slow down and take in all that is being said. This would especially be true for those who haven’t read Ryle before. This volume comes in at only 178 pages, and it’s all gold! As Derek Prime mentions in the foreword, “the abridgment loses nothing of the urgent practical and pastoral spirit that characterizes Ryle.”

This book consists of 18 short chapters, with many of the chapters being less than ten pages. I found that to be very helpful. One could easily read this book in 18 days, allowing each chapter to be read, thought through, prayed over, and discussed with others (I love telling my wife about the things I’m reading and learning about the Lord). 

I really appreciate the structure that Ryle gives in this book. It’s very organized and consistent from chapter to chapter. You can tell that Ryle is a preacher who knows how to structure a good sermon. Every chapter has numbered main points (conveniently found in bold letters) so that you can see the flow of Ryle’s argument. There is also a conclusion section at the end of each chapter which is exceptionally well done. In these conclusions, Ryle shows the depth of his pastoral heart, helping the reader to take the entire chapter to the level of the heart, seeking to apply it in real life. 

Not every chapter in Ryle’s original work made it into this abridged version. However, his chapter on the Lord’s Day made the cut, and it was included as an appendix. I am beyond thankful that this decision was made. In an era where the church (especially in evangelicalism) has downplayed the fourth commandment, this writing by Ryle is much needed today! He concisely, biblically, and wisely instructs Christians on the importance of continuing to follow the fourth commandment (to remember the sabbath day and keep it holy). I really appreciate his approach, not advocating for a religious “fanaticism” or a “kind of gloomy religion”, but a soul-satisfying holy rest that is focused on the Lord. 

This book is an excellent version of Ryle’s Practical Religion, and this paperback edition by Christian Focus is just what the church needs today. I highly commend it, and I hope that you will consider what Ryle has to say about “Walking with God.” 

Disclaimer: My thanks to Christian Focus for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed are my own.